Mercedes-Benz Malaysia Sdn Bhd (MBM) is expected to maintain its leading position in the luxury limousine segment with the introduction of the new Mercedes S-Class S450 L.

The local unit of the luxury German carmaker also unveiled the S-Class Cabriolet, S-Class Coupe and S-Class Maybach.

MBM VP of sales and marketing passenger cars Mark Raine said the S-Class family symbolises luxury through contemporary and exclusive designs for the discerning customers.

“At the same time, with the launch of this exclusive collection, we proudly underline our position as a leading luxury lifestyle brand in the automotive segment,” he said at the unveiling of the car in Kuala Lumpur yesterday.

He said MBM continues to focus on the demands and requirements of the customers, assess their expectations and provide the best vehicle.

“In addition, it is very clear that the S-Class Limousine S450L has been the biggest seller among the S-Class family. This is because it is locally produced, and it has received incentives from the government, making it a lot more affordable than imported vehicles,” he told The Malaysian Reserve after the launch.

He said MBM has a market share of above 2.5% and expects to continue to be the leading luxury vehicle brand, as well as the biggest selling European automobile branding the country.

“With this new range, we are meeting the demand and expectation of our discerning clientele, and we will continue to pursue the path of modern luxury and the pinnacle of luxury.

“With these models, I am confident that we will be more successful compared to years before,” he said.

In terms of the reimplementation of the Sales and Services Tax in September, Raine said it will definitely affect MBM sales performance.

“However, in which way the new tax will pan out, it remains to be seen. That said, for us, we have a strategic roadmap which has our customers at the centre of all our activities.

“So, we always look for the best customers experience as we heavily invest into our networks to further improve and enhance our customers’ touchpoints,” he said.

The German carmaker sold 6,790 vehicles in the first half of 2018 (1H18), a 15% increase compared to the same period last year, with a total market share of 2.5%, a 0.2% improvement from 1H17.

The new locally assembled Mercedes S-Class comes in S450L AMG Line variant and is priced from RM699,888 without on-the-road insurance.